Appenzell Ausser-Rhoden

Demi-canton in northeast Switzerland, enclosed within the canton of St Gallen; area 243 sq km/93 sq mi; population (1999 est) 53,700. It comprises the north and west section of the former canton of Appenzell. Its capital and largest city is Herisau. Cotton, muslin, and embroidered goods are manufactured here.

From the 11th to the 14th century, Appenzell was ruled by the abbots of St Gallen, but after a hard struggle for independence it became a member of the Swiss Confederation in 1513. During the Reformation, the canton divided along religious lines: Ausser-Rhoden became predominantly Protestant, while Inner-Rhoden remained Catholic. The demi-canton has maintained its Landsgemeinde, the ancient open-air assembly held once a year when its citizens congregate for the purpose of electing administrative officials, setting taxes, and passing legislation.